Arthritis pain is caused by problems in the joints.
The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis, can be caused by the thickening of tissue in your joints and inflammation in the area, causing the symptoms of arthritis.
Signs that you have the condition include joint stiffness, swelling and pain.
You’re more at risk of developing arthritis if you’re older, overweight or female, among other factors.
Dr Sarah Brewer, a medical consultant, recommends adding apples to your diet on her website.
“Eat an apple every day for their anti-inflammatory polyphenols,” she writes.
“One large apple (100g) provides the same benefits against inflamed joints as 1,500 milligrams of vitamin C. Wash but don’t peel your apples – the polyphenols are five times more concentrated in the skin than the flesh.”
A 2018 review found that polyphenols are “able to inhibit the expression and the release of a number of substances which cause inflammation”.
“Studies on animal models of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and gout show interesting results in terms of reduced tissue damage and others.”
Published in the Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture, the authors called for more tests to determine whether further polyphenol consumption should be used as a way to treat arthritis.
Apples can be purchased for as little as 27p each in most UK stores.
Alongside consuming apples, Dr Sarah Brewer also recommended eating other fruits and vegetables to fight off arthritis pain.
“My first Golden Rule for arthritis is to eat at least five (and preferably more) servings of fruit and vegetables per day.
“The provide an array of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are beneficial for all types of joint pain and swelling, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and gout.”
The NHS recommends eating a “healthy, balanced diet” if you suffer from arthritis.
“Eating healthily will give you all the nutrients you need and help you maintain a healthy weight.”
The national healthcare provider says you should aim for five portions of fruit and veg every day, each at about 100 grams.
“Almost all fruit and vegetables count towards your five a day,” says their website
“So it may be easier than you think to get your recommended daily amount.”
Other ways to reduce arthritis symptoms include taking glucosamine tablets.
Dr Josh Axe, an American Clinical Nutritionist, recommends these as they can help you get helpful nutrients for “repairing joints”.
